YouTube has long been an outlet for the LGBTQ community to rally together, share their stories, show support, and proudly proclaim that "it gets better." For the first time in YouTube's eight-year history, it's dedicating a whole day to celebrating and honoring the voices whose influence have extended the conversation of sexuality into every facet of our day-to-day lives. To kick it off, YouTube created a heartwarming Pride video showcasing the impact its queer creators have made. Throughout the next 24 hours, YouTube's spotlight channel will feature LGBTQ programming highlighting the glamorous, the vulnerable, the heart-wrenching, but nonetheless profoundly inspiring moments that have made YouTube a major advocate for equal rights. The grassroots community that's sprouted on its platform speaks to everyone, regardless of sexuality — the joy is found in the pride its users boldly share to the world, and today they honor them with a special hashtag, #ProudToLove.
This is a watershed moment for the channel itself. YouTube is raising its Pride flag — and waving it high. They've compiled playlists of The Trevor Project, users coming out live, and some of the best, most anthemic Pride music videos out there. The joy these videos bring is contagious! Not only are we thrilled YouTube's fearlessly supporting the LGBTQ community, we're proud to stand alongside them with our own Pride flag flying.